As we watch Hurricane Helene make its way toward Florida, it’s a reminder that hurricane season is in full swing. The season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with its peak from mid-August to mid-October. Most Floridians are familiar with the steps required to safeguard their homes and families during this time, but if you’re new to the state, a first-time homeowner, or simply in need of a refresher, we’ve put together a guide to help you stay prepared.
With Hurricane Helene approaching, now is the time to ensure that you’re ready for the potential impact. Even if you live inland in North Central Florida, the effects of a hurricane—strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, and power outages—can be felt hundreds of miles from the coast.
Create an Emergency Plan
A solid emergency preparedness plan is essential. Every member of your household should understand the plan and know their roles in an emergency. Share your plan with an out-of-state friend or family member who can serve as a central point of contact.
Be sure to include:
- Contact information for all household members, including pets.
- Emergency kits with clean clothes, medications, pet supplies, flashlights, batteries, snacks, and water.
- Copies of important documents stored in waterproof containers.
Getting Prepared
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in patio furniture, grills, trash cans, potted plants, and any outdoor decorations that could become projectiles in high winds.
- Fill Your Vehicles with Gas: Power outages can make fuel hard to come by. Top off your gas tank and check fluids and tire pressure.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Gather nonperishable food, bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day for 3-7 days), medications, hygiene items, and pet supplies.
- Charge Electronics: Fully charge cell phones, backup batteries, and portable chargers. Ensure you have battery-powered lights and radios ready to go.
- Fill Bathtubs and Containers with Water: Use tubs and large containers to store water for flushing toilets and basic cleaning in case of water outages.
- Turn Your Fridge/Freezer to Coldest Settings: This will help keep food colder for longer in the event of a power outage.
- Test Your Generator: If you have one, make sure your generator is in good working condition, has fuel, and is ready to use. Keep it outside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If you have a pool, you may want to drain a bit in anticipation of excess rain.
- Check and Restock Your Emergency Kit: Ensure your emergency kit has first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, blankets, and a whistle for signaling help.
For disaster help, shelter locations, and more, visit FloridaDisaster.org. You can also access FEMA.gov and NOAA for alerts and recovery resources.
At Bosshardt Realty, we’re here to help you stay safe and prepared as we monitor Hurricane Helene. Whether you need real estate assistance or advice on protecting your property during hurricane season, we’re ready to support you.
Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and remember—being ready is your best defense against the storm.
